Delivering 3 GW Offshore Wind Energy for Maine by 2040

In 2023, Maine's first offshore wind procurement law was signed by Governor Mills. The law authorizes the State to develop and implement the procurement process for at least 3,000 MW of offshore wind energy by 2040 — a crucial recommendation of the Maine Offshore Wind Roadmap. The law also allows for critical port development, creates opportunities for all Maine workers and businesses in the emerging industry, and protects critical lobster fishing areas from offshore wind development. Throughout the process, Maine will collaborate with other states on transmission and procurement efforts, share lessons learned, and coordinate to build a broader supply chain that will support the growing industry. 
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MAINE’S FIRST COMMERCIAL OFFSHORE WIND SOLICITATION

The Maine Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) will coordinate with the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC), other State agencies and Tribal communities on the development of an offshore wind solicitation that calls for proposals from offshore wind developers and delivers offshore wind energy for Maine. The solicitation will include important plans related to stakeholder engagement, fisheries protection, environmental considerations, and economic development.

The PUC will then administer the solicitation and work with GEO to review submitted proposals and ensure that any selected projects result in contracts that are cost-effective for electric ratepayers, taking into consideration potential economic, environmental, and other benefits to ratepayers along with furthering the goals of the Maine Offshore Wind Renewable Energy and Economic Development Program.

For more information on Maine’s offshore wind procurement, including the anticipated timeline and opportunities for public engagement, please visit the Maine Governor’s Energy Office website.